Wow...when it rains, it pours! After writing 4 offers in 2 days, I finally feel like I've rounded the corner and I'm headed back to success. The market has definitely picked up again after a slower early October in the Raleigh, Durham housing market.
I've realized working your database is more important than ever before. I've reached out to past clients, investors, new leads and just mentioned real estate in public conversations and it's paid off. I'm even working on selling a home to a new buyer I met while he helped me change a flat tire! I'll be giving him a nice closing gift for sure.
Take the time to set up a client database if you don't have one. I'm amazed how many Realtors don't keep track of who they worked with, spoken to or received calls from. If they raise there hand...answer their questions! A buyer might not be ready now, but long term follow up will pay off. PIPELINE BABY!
Good luck today and I wish everyone a successful week.
Well, it's finally back the oh so yummy state fair. Now I'm a good eater overall with nutritious meals and what not but once I year I have to let loose! The NC STATE Fair is in Raleigh, NC until Oct. 26, 2008...why not join us!
Here's my TOP FIVE List of favorite foods.
1. Handmade Pretzel's- gotta get the one back past the pig races...ya'll know where those are!
2. Roasted Corn with garlic butter...messy but worth it!
3. Fresh squeezed Lemonade to wash the corn and pretzel down, of course
4. Hot Mini Powdered Donuts...I can see them bubbling& flipping over with that cool little fork thingy now!
5. This one has changed...It was Chicken on a Stick but they don't come anymore! Ahh...I guess I'll take a Turkey Leg for the car ride home...I need to balance all the carbs out with some protein!
Come on Down to Raleigh and visit the fair this week!
So, I've been around the investment block a time or two but recently I'm stumbling over some different kind of folks...or should we say, wanna be real estate agents.
I know the market is tough and homes are dropping in value in many areas, but the Raleigh/Durham market is still plowing ahead. This ,of course, brings investors from out of state to purchase homes in a stable city. I'm seeing quite a few ads run in miscellaneous spots for "Head Hunters" or "Deal Finders" who dig up property, charge a fee and then match it to an investor who has a criteria on paper. This sounds like a grand idea but...these middle folks aren't licensed and shouldn't be taking fee's in my opinion. Also, don't people know how easily value can be skewed on homes?!
Any one agree with me?
Also, I feel sorry for the investors who are paying more than they should for properties. If you are considering purchasing investment property in an area you do not plan on visiting...INTERVIEW some licensed REALTORS who specialize in investments. Many real estate agents are not savvy in this field but with a few key questions, a savvy investor can figure out if a REALTOR or agent knows their stuff!
Questions like...cap rates, monthly cash flow, investment plans, short or long term holds.
If the person on the end of the line says, HUH? They are not your match!
There is some great buys for rental or short term hold, but you have to have all the facts and someone truly on your side watching out for your financial goals...not just a quick buck!
USDA is still a great choice for many buyers. It's a true 100% program but it does have some restrictions.
If you're looking in rural areas or outskirts of larger cities, it may be a great option for you! Keep in mind not all mortgage sources have access to these programs.
Feel free to give me a call if you'd like some details about homes in the Raleigh/Durham, NC area that qualify.

ActiveRain Corp. is not responsible for the accuracy of the site's content (which is written by members of the ActiveRain Real Estate Network) and does not endorse the views of the real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and others listed here.
Powered by the ActiveRain Real Estate Network
© 2009 ActiveRain Corp. All Rights Reserved